Mongolian Tournament Riders Carved Wood Panel
January 2013 Auction by Far East Asian Art

This mid-19th century wood carving of two riders in a match similar to polo originally was part of a larger piece, as indicated by its two unfinished ends. It was taken from a longer panel, perhaps with a series of carvings that were on a door or screen. The horsemen are in ceremonial dress and once held long sticks that now are missing from the scene. They are surrounded by trees and foliage, and two low clouds swirl around the runner in front...